McDonald's has officially announced that virtually all of its U.S. restaurants will welcome customers on Thanksgiving Day 2025, though the company is urging diners to check their local store hours before heading out. As millions of Americans gather for the holiday, the fast-food giant is positioning itself as a convenient backup plan for those who want to skip the kitchen or need a quick meal between family festivities.
The Official Word on Thanksgiving Hours
All U.S. McDonald's locations will be open on Thanksgiving Day 2025, according to a company spokesperson who confirmed the news to FOX Business. However, this doesn't mean every location will operate on its standard schedule. Most franchises will maintain some level of service throughout the day, but
hours will vary significantly depending on your local restaurant.
The variation in hours stems from the fact that the vast majority of McDonald's restaurants are franchised operations, meaning individual owners have flexibility in determining their holiday schedules. Some locations may stay open during regular hours, while others could close earlier or operate with limited service.
Why You Need to Check Before You Go
The most important takeaway for hungry Thanksgiving diners is simple:
don't assume your nearest McDonald's will be open at your preferred time. The company strongly recommends using the
McDonald's online restaurant locator tool to confirm your local store's specific hours before making the trip.
This precaution is especially critical for those planning to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the holiday. Some locations may also operate with
reduced staff or adjusted menus to accommodate the holiday schedule, so calling ahead can prevent disappointment.
A Creative Alternative to Traditional Thanksgiving
For those looking to lighten their cooking load, McDonald's is offering a tongue-in-cheek alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving spread. The chain has suggested creative menu substitutions, including
Chicken McNuggets instead of turkey,
World Famous Fries in place of mashed potatoes, and the
seasonal Pumpkin & Creme pie as a modern twist on pumpkin pie.
Beyond these playful suggestions, McDonald's 2025 holiday menu features returning favorites like the
Holiday Pie and McRib, now available for a limited time nationwide. The chain has also debuted
The Grinch Meal, a limited-time bundle inspired by the classic
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! movie, which includes new Dill Pickle McShaker Fries and a choice of a Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets.
Other Fast-Food Options on Thanksgiving
McDonald's isn't alone in staying open for the holiday.
Starbucks and Dunkin' locations will also largely remain open, though hours vary by location. Both chains encourage customers to use their respective apps or store locators to confirm local availability.
In contrast, major retailers like
Target, Costco, Walmart, and Trader Joe's will close entirely on Thanksgiving, giving employees time to spend with family and friends.
The Bottom Line
If you're planning a McDonald's run on Thanksgiving, the key is preparation.
Use the McDonald's store locator tool on the company's website or call your local restaurant directly to confirm hours before you head out. With most locations open but operating on varying schedules, a quick check now could save you from a frustrating trip later.
For busy holiday schedules, travelers passing through town, or anyone looking to supplement their Thanksgiving meal with familiar fast-food favorites, McDonald's remains a reliable option—as long as you verify your local store's hours first.
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McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Hours 2025 - Parade2.
McDonald's Answers Major Customer Question for Thanksgiving 2025 - TheStreet3.
Major Retailers and Restaurants Closing for Thanksgiving - FOX Business
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